Common in deciduous woodland and on moorland throughout Britain. Widespread and very common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 15-22 mm. Most likely to be confused with S. basistrigalis and S. ancipitella, which see, and Eudonia truncicolella, which has darker markings and no ochreous wash. Larva feeds on various mosses.
The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:
No records Very occasional Irregular Uncommon Off-peak, but not unusual Off-peak, but not unusual Main flight time